Apple has released the AirPods Max 2, available for order from March 25th, shipping in early April. The new over-ear headphones arrive with a mixed reception, as their $549 price tag remains unchanged despite being only slightly more advanced than Apple’s $500 Macbook Neo.
The original AirPods Max launched in 2020 with a controversial price point, but set a new standard for high-end noise-canceling headphones. Sony, Bose, and Bowers & Wilkins have all raised prices on their premium models in response. The Max 2 keeps the same price but upgrades from the H1 to the H2 chip — bringing it in line with the AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 4.
Performance Upgrades: What’s New?
The most notable improvement is the enhanced active noise cancellation (ANC). Apple claims a 50% boost in effectiveness, though this lags behind the 100-200% improvements seen in newer AirPods Pro generations.
Other enhancements include:
- Cleaner Audio: A new high-dynamic range amplifier promises clearer sound.
- Improved Spatial Audio: Apple says spatial audio now sounds more natural, with better instrument localization and bass response.
- Refined Transparency Mode: The H2 chip and optimized algorithms create a more natural sound when allowing outside noise in.
- Better Call Quality: Advanced computational audio should filter out background noise and enhance voice clarity during calls.
New Features Enabled by the H2 Chip
The H2 chip unlocks several features seen in Apple’s latest earbuds:
- Adaptive Audio: Automatically adjusts ANC and transparency levels based on environmental noise.
- Conversation Awareness: Reduces audio volume and activates transparency when you start talking, enabling seamless conversations.
- Studio-Quality Recording: For content creators, the headphones can now record higher-quality audio with a more natural vocal texture.
- Camera Remote: Control iPhone or iPad camera functions via the Digital Crown.
- Live Translation: Near real-time translation during conversations.
- Loud Sound Reduction: Automatically activates ANC to protect hearing while preserving audio quality.
- Personalized Volume: Learns and adjusts to your listening preferences over time.
- Siri Interactions: Nod or shake your head to respond to Siri prompts.
What Remains the Same?
Despite the upgrades, the AirPods Max 2 share key characteristics with the original model:
- Design: Identical dimensions and 13.6-ounce weight.
- Case: The same protective smart case is included.
- Colors: Available in midnight, starlight, orange, purple, and blue.
- Battery Life: Still rated at up to 20 hours with noise canceling enabled.
- USB-C Audio: Supports 24-bit/48kHz lossless audio via USB-C.
Is the Upgrade Worth It?
While some hoped for a more radical redesign or the inclusion of the rumored H3 chip, the AirPods Max 2 offers meaningful improvements. The H2 chip makes the headphones 20% better, combining performance and feature upgrades.
Pricing for the original AirPods Max may drop as the Max 2 rolls out, with discounts potentially bringing the new model closer to $500 in the near future. If you’re already considering the AirPods Max, the Max 2 is likely worth the investment. Otherwise, waiting for further discounts might be a better option.
